In a tragic development that has plunged the nation into mourning, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has officially confirmed that several high-profile government officials have lost their lives in a fatal military helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in the Ashanti Region.
Speaking at a solemn press conference in Accra, which was broadcast on EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz, the Chief of Staff revealed that Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, was among those who perished in the crash. His passing marks a significant loss to both the government and the people of Ghana, given his contributions to national security and defense reforms.
Also confirmed dead is the Minister for Environment, Murtala Mohammed, whose environmental advocacy and leadership played a vital role in the country’s recent sustainability initiatives.
Another major casualty of the tragic incident is Former Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, who was also onboard the military aircraft. Dr. Sarpong, known for his grassroots leadership and commitment to regional development, has left behind a legacy that will be remembered by many.
Additional victims include:
- Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Samuel Aboagye, former Member of Parliament
- Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, pilot
- Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, co-pilot
- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, crew member
According to a statement issued by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and reported by EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz, the helicopter — an Air Force Z9 — was en route from Accra to Obuasi when it suddenly went off radar. Efforts to reestablish communication with the aircraft were unsuccessful, and not long after, reports emerged of a fiery crash near Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region.
Eyewitnesses at the crash site reported that the helicopter was engulfed in flames and burned beyond recognition shortly after impact. Rescue operations began immediately, with emergency personnel and military teams working through difficult terrain to recover the remains and gather evidence from the wreckage.
The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that the aircraft had eight individuals onboard at the time of the crash — three crew members and five passengers — and has launched a full-scale investigation into the cause of the incident. Meanwhile, a nationwide search and recovery effort continues, supported by ground forces and aerial reconnaissance units.
In its statement, the GAF emphasized that “all efforts are being made to establish contact and determine the circumstances that led to the aircraft going off the radar.”
This tragic incident has shocked the nation, sparking an outpouring of grief across political, military, and civilian communities. Tributes have begun to pour in for the late officials, with many describing their deaths as a heartbreaking loss to the country.
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz will continue to provide updates as investigations progress and funeral arrangements are made for the victims.
STORY BY : KENNEDY AMPONSAH NTI
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ
NEWS ROOM
